Research Symposium

BIO

My name is Thomas, I am a second year undergraduate studying Biochemistry. I am from Ormond Beach Florida. After college I plan on applying to medical school. In Dr. Lei Zhu's research group we explore nuances in Organic Chemistry Synthesis and Photochemistry.

Photoconversion of 1,2,3-triazoles to indoles ​

Abstract

Photoconversion of 1,2,3-triazoles to indoles

The azide-alkyne cycloaddition to afford triazoles, also known as the click reaction, has gained lots of traction in organic chemistry research. It has opened many new routes for drug discovery and advances in materials science. This reaction entails an azide and an alkyne forming an aromatic five-membered “triazole” ring that has interesting chemical properties. This ring formation can be the key to many synthetic obstacles that organic chemists face. My research in Dr. Lei Zhu’s group is focused on finding a convenient route to form alkynyl-substituted triazoles which are a form of triazoles that are reactive when irradiated with light. As one adds substituents to either the azide or the alkyne, the click reaction requires different conditions to be successful. Synthesizing azides and alkynes that have interesting reactivities is important for forming a triazole. Aromatics azides and alkynes can be conjugated to afford alkynylated triazoles under copper catalyzed conditions. The products of this reaction are expected to undergo photoconversion to alkynylated indoles, which are valuable core structures for pharmaceutical candidates. The conversion from a triazole to an indole produces diatomic nitrogen gas as a byproduct. Going forward, I plan to develop the scope of my alkynyl triazole formation along with the indoles that are formed after photochemical conversion.

Keywords: Organic Chemistry, Chemistry, Photochemistry, Synthesis

BIO

Greetings, my name is Schleiden Saint-Jean a 2nd year majoring in biological sciences on the pre-medical track. I was born in haiti and grew up in Miami Florida, my hobbies are gym and photography

Examining Hope, Racial Microaggressions, and Anxiety in Black Students attending Predominantly White Institutions

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between hope, racial microaggressions, and anxiety among Black students attending Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). Drawing from a sample of 95 Black-identifying college students aged 18–25 across the state of Florida, we employed a cross-sectional and correlational design using self-report measures: the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-42), the School-Based Racial and Ethnic Microaggressions Scale (SB-REMS), and the Adult Hope Scale (AHS). Results revealed a significant positive correlation between racial microaggressions and anxiety (r = .583, p < .01), suggesting that increased experiences of racial microaggressions are associated with higher levels of anxiety. However, hope did not demonstrate a statistically significant moderating or direct relationship with either racial microaggressions or anxiety. These findings align with existing literature that supports a significant positive association between anxiety and racial microaggressions. While preliminary, this research highlights the urgent need for further investigation into protective psychological factors and interventions that may buffer the mental health consequences of racial microaggressions experienced by Black students in PWI settings. Future studies should incorporate larger, more diverse samples and consider additional covariates such as ethnicity, gender identity, and first-generation status to deepen the understanding of these complex dynamics.

Keywords: Racial Microaggressions, Anxiety, Hope, Black Students, PWIs

BIO

I'm from Tampa, Florida and my long-term career goal is to become a doctor in neurology. I am passionate about a variety of research topics, specifically anything that intersects with medicine. I also believe that participating in research outside of my specific field is crucial for understanding any factors that could be contributing to the health of individuals, which is essential for my future as a healthcare provider where I hope to advocate for equitable healthcare.

Misdemeanor (In)Justice

Abstract

It is estimated that over 13 million misdemeanor cases are filed in the United States each year. Recent research has highlighted some of the concerns related to the misdemeanor system of justice in the United States, including violations of due process and practices that contribute to inequities. The current research intends to explore the misdemeanor system in Florida's Second Judicial Circuit to understand the extent to which misdemeanor courtrooms are complying with the law and to understand some of the factors associated with non-compliance and other potential sources of unfairness. To accomplish this, a team of undergraduate student researchers conducted systematic courtroom observations using a custom form across the circuit, comprised of six separate courtrooms. Observations included misdemeanor court arraignments and criminal traffic proceedings. Courtroom observations were completed in both rural and urban settings. Drawing on the data elicited during courtroom observations, future analyses will systematically explore local courtroom practices to capture the extent of legal compliance and to identify factors associated with non-compliance in legal proceedings. Our findings will be shared with local stakeholders to inform discussions of the misdemeanor system of justice, including ways to promote best practices.

Keywords: Misdemeanor, court, justice, criminology

BIO

My name is Steven Gary and I am a second-year student at Florida State University studying Biology and Psychology. After graduation I plan on attending medical school. In the Hermiller Lab we are studying the hippocampus and its contributions to memory by using neuroimaging and brain stimulation to better understand how memories are formed, consolidated, and retrieved.

False Memories: Investigating The Role Of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation In Modulating Memory Encoding And Distortion Across Event Boundaries In Supernatural And Crime Narratives Using Naturalistic Stimuli

Abstract

False memories are defined as the distortion, in memory, of an event that has previously occurred. False memories impact a range of individuals including eyewitnesses, children, older adults with memory impairment, and individuals with PTSD. The hippocampal-cortical network (HCN) is inclusive of brain regions responsible for memory encoding and retrieval including the angular gyrus, hippocampus, and parietal lobe. Event boundaries occur when there’s a noticeable, or slight change in event scene, time, or context. They play a crucial role in memory formation by activating brain regions responsible for memory consolidation. We aim to investigate how non-invasive brain stimulation (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, TMS) mediates false memories, with particular focus on its effects within event boundaries. Our task includes a naturalistic test phase (a video) and a test phase (multiple choice, audio, picture questions). TMS is administered at different time points—before or after the video, before the test, or not at all (behavioral condition)—to determine the optimal stimulation timing for enhancing memory encoding, consolidation, and successful retrieval. We hypothesize that TMS applied to the left parietal site will enhance memory encoding and recall accuracy. Additionally, we predict that TMS will improve recall of details occurring in the middle of event boundaries, counteracting the recency effect, which prioritizes memory retention at the beginning and end of sequences. Results from our study will increase our understanding of how event boundaries reinforce memory consolidation and improve retrieval – additionally we will gain better understanding of how TMS affects memory retrieval for naturalistic stimuli.

Keywords: Psychology, Memory, Hippocampus, TMS

BIO

My name is Lauren Dougherty and I am a second-year student from the Ft. Lauderdale area, majoring in Behavioral Neuroscience with a minor in Chemistry. I am currently assisting at the Wilber lab, where they are studying spatial memory and cognitive function in mice/rats with Alzheimer's. I am hoping to go to Physician Assistant or Anesthesiologist Assistant school after graduating.

Rescuing Impaired Hippocampal-cortical Interactions and Spatial Reorientation Learning and Memory During Sleep in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease Using Hippocampal 40 Hz Stimulation

Abstract

In preclinical Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), spatial memory and cognitive function is declined. Sleep and the relation between the hippocampus (HPC) and the parietal cortex (PC) have an extremely important role in memory retention. During sleep, memories are replayed within the hippocampus, which allows the processing and storage of information gathered from the previous day. The accumulation of amyloid beta plaques (A𝛽) and tau are a sign of AD in the brain. A𝛽 and its metabolites can damage signaling between neurons, while intracellular hyperphosphorylation of tau can lead to internal damage and neurotoxicity. Recent research has shown that stimulation of the brain at 40 Hz may reduce the pathology seen in AD. Using a 16-tetrode recording array implanted in 6-month-old 3xTg-AD/PVCre female mice, we monitored delta wave troughs (DWTs) and sharp wave ripples (SWRs) from the right PC and HPC. A fiber optic cable was also implanted in the right hippocampus, were mice received 1-hour 40 Hz or sham sessions daily. We previously found that the temporal coupling between SWRs and the DWTs was reduced in 3xTg-AD mice compared to healthy controls. In healthy controls, the strengthening of coupling from pre-task to post-task sleep was correlated with behavioral performance. This result was not found in 3xTg-AD mice. We recently found that 40 Hz optogenetic stimulation appears to restore HPC-PC coupling in 3xTg-AD mice, though this result no longer correlated with behavioral performance.

Keywords: Alzheimer's, Mice, Behavior, Sleep, Learning

BIO

I am an Environmental Science student with a strong interest in riverbank sustainability, water quality, and ecological restoration. My research focuses on comparing vegetative treatments and rock armoring for erosion control along North Florida riverbanks. I am passionate about developing sustainable solutions to mitigate environmental degradation and plan to pursue a career in conservation and ecosystem management. Through my studies, I aim to contribute to the preservation of natural waterways and promote environmentally responsible land-use practices.

Sustainable Erosion Control on North Florida Riverbanks: A Comparative Study of Vegetative Treatments versus Rock Armoring

Abstract

Shallow slope failures and soil erosion along roadsides and streambanks are significant challenges in regions with intense rainfall, such as Florida. Traditional erosion control methods—often relying on basic vegetation seeding—may not provide sufficient long-term stability on specifically steep slopes. However, vegetation still releases other environmental benefits for the river and habitat and functions on shallow slopes effectively. In our study, we evaluated the strength of general vegetative treatments for slope stabilization and sediment reduction and compared these to rock armoring techniques. Experimental plots on a roadside slope in a North Florida river will be monitored over a year period using runoff collection, erosion pin measurements, and assessments of root development. The predicted results show that well-established vegetation, with its extensive root networks, reduces sediment yield and reinforces the soil at a moderate level, decreasing erosion by 70%. In contrast, while rock armoring is highly effective at protecting against erosion in high-energy environments, decreasing erosion by about 90%, it comes with higher installation and maintenance costs, a less attractive appearance, and no additional benefits such as habitat creation. Theoretically, this highlights the potential of sustainable, vegetation-based erosion control as a cost-effective alternative to traditional rock-based methods for maintaining stable, resilient river banks.

Keywords: Environment, erosion, river, conservation

BIO

My name is Ruqayyah Basrai and I'm a senior majoring in Exercise Physiology. I began doing research sophomore year of college and did research on the correlation between twins and literacy rate. I later found interest in learning about the effects of space on physiology in mice and began doing research on The Effects of Microgravity on Bone Density in Female Mice. This peaked my interest in cardiovascular physiology particularly in females and was the catalyst for changing my major to exercise physiology. From there, I began to learn more about cardiovascular physiology and found interest in my project now which is The Effects of a High-Fat Diet on Atherosclerosis and MiR-21 in Female Mice.

The Effects of a High-Fat Diet on Atherosclerosis and MiR-21 in Female Mice.

Abstract

The role of miR-21 in atherosclerosis in female mice is still being studied. The purpose of this study was to understand the effect of a high-fat diet on atherosclerosis in female mice and recognize its role on miR-21. Obesity, characterized by an increase in adipose tissue, leads to altered adipokine levels and contributes to atherosclerosis. TGF-beta, a cytokine, induces fibrosis through an increase in collagen accumulation and inflammation. This activates the Smad pathway, phosphorylating Smad2 and Smad3, allowing the transcription of genes like CTGF, fibronectin, and type 1 collagen. TGF- beta also increases the expression of miR-21, enhancing the stimulation of fibroblasts, further promoting fibrosis. The study highlights that many cascade pathways are involved in elucidating the role of miR-21 in fibrosis, such as TGF-beta/Smads, PI3K, and ERK, as well as inhibitors such as Smad7, PTEN, and Sprouty. Many studies show that a high-fat diet can lead to fibrosis and elastin degradation. In this experiment, 8-week-old mice were separated into two groups: wild-type and miR-21 KO. They were further split into a control group that was fed a standard diet, whereas the high-fat diet group was fed a diet that consisted of 0.2% total cholesterol and 42% kcal from fat. After 28 weeks, at 36 weeks of age, the aorta, carotid, and mesenteric arteries were collected and analyzed using Masson’s trichrome and Verhoeff Van Gieson staining to distinguish collagen from vascular smooth muscle. This allowed for the assessment of fibrosis, elastin degradation, and the role of miR-21 in these processes.

Keywords: Atherosclerosis, MiR-21, Female Mice

BIO

Hi my name is Elizabeth Cortina and I'm currently first-year pre-law student at Florida State University's Honors Program. I'm currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Sociology with a double major in Political Science in FSU's Degree in Three program and interning at the Department of Education. I plan to pursue the More in Four program's Masters of Applied American Politics and Policy after I finish with my undergraduate degree, and hope to attend law school in the near future as well. My on-campus involvements include being an associate editor for the Undergraduate Law Review, Assistant Director of Research for the Sunshine Society, the Legislative Certification Program, Women in Government, and Women in Pre-Law Society.

A Qualitative Content Analysis of How “Snapped: Killer Couples” Portray Female Perpetrators Versus Their Male Partners

Abstract

Half of Americans consume true crime content with morbid human curiosity, attributed to its popularity in the modern sphere. This research study delves into how the portrayals of men and women homicide perpetrators differ in the true crime show "Snapped: Killer Couples" and how directional decisions (i.e., what the director felt was important to re-enact) shaped the gendered narrative of the perpetrators. The team utilized qualitative content analysis, creating a codebook to use when watching the show about the possible existing differences in male/female representation in criminal media. The codebook consisted of categories such as perpetrator, gender, race, relationship to the partner in crime, homicide type, motivation, relationship to the victim, competency, sexual orientation, and media frames. The research is still being conducted, but preliminary implications based on initial coding have shown that, even in the modern sense, women tend to be portrayed in true crime media as either villainous or victims. The villainous woman is demonized by the media and seen as monstrous, possibly seductive to their male partner; the victimized woman is subject to the will of her partner, an illness, or "hysteria" in response to outside masculine sources.

Keywords: True crime, gender, media

BIO

I am a senior Computer Science student from South Korea with interests in graph theory, network theory, and discrete algorithms. I enjoy developing and playing video games in my free time. I am particularly interested in applying theoretical concepts to solve real-world problems. After graduation, I plan to pursue graduate school with the goal of becoming a researcher in the field of theory of computation.

The Effect of Network Regularity on Coordination with Limited Rationality

Abstract

Understanding how agents interact in complex systems is essential, and these interactions depend on the network structures connecting them. Some studies assume agents make perfect decisions, but in reality, they usually make choices under bounded rationality. This gap motivates our research on how network structures affect coordination among agents with limited rationality. We conducted simulations to explore coordination dynamics in network coordination games. The goal was to see how different network structures influence coordination when agents have bounded rationality. Using MATLAB, we simulated agents with limited rationality on regular and irregular graph structures. Our results show that regular graphs lead to better coordination than irregular graphs. This finding suggests that regular network structures when compared to irregular ones with the same number of edges, can help reduce the challenges of bounded rationality in multi-agent systems. This could guide The design of more effective coordination strategies in real-world applications, such as drone swarms, autonomous vehicles, and distributed sensor networks.

Keywords: Network, Robot, Graph, Game Theory, Coordination

BIO

I am an undergraduate at Florida State University majoring in Cell and Molecular Neuroscience. I am driven by a deep curiosity about the mysteries of the brain—how neural circuits give rise to cognition, perception, and behavior. This passion has led me to explore the intersection of neuroscience and medicine, with a focus on brain-computer interfaces and neurodegenerative diseases. I am passionate about developing novel neurotechnologies for diagnosing and treating neurological disorders. My goal is to contribute to advancing brain-computer interfaces to improve patient outcomes. My research experience includes EEG studies on human neural activity, analyzing acoustic signal divergence in chorus frogs, and contributing to a low-gravity experiment on lunar regolith behavior. Currently, I am studying speciation and reproductive barriers as part of the Lemmon Lab at FSU. Through my work, I strive to bridge fundamental neuroscience with real-world applications, ultimately improving lives through innovation in brain research and medical technology.

Quantifying Acoustic Signal Divergence During Speciation by Reinforcement in Pseudacris feriarum

Abstract

Speciation is the creation of new species through evolutionary divergence. The idea that a species can diverge into multiple was first proposed by Charles Darwin in his book On the Origin of Species, laying the foundation for our understanding of biodiversity. Today, speciation is of great interest in modern biology because it provides insight into the incredible variation of life. Reinforcement, the evolution of behavioral reproductive isolation between species due to selection against hybridization, is one evolutionary force that can drive speciation. Prior studies have suggested that reinforcement between two chorus frog species, the Upland chorus frog (Pseudacris feriarum) and the Southern chorus frog (P. nigrita), can indirectly cause shifts in the male mating calls of P. feriarum populations. No studies to date, however, have examined these shifts in call structure across fine spatial scales. Here, we studied a transect of twenty P. feriarum populations spanning the Piedmont and Coastal Plain geographic regions near Macon, Georgia. Populations south of Macon have undergone reinforcement from interactions with P. nigrita, whereas populations north of Macon have not. We measured and compared call characteristics such as wavelength, amplitude, pulse number, pulse rate, and frequency of populations across the transect. Substantial differences in call structure between populations at the ends of the transect are expected, along with a transition in phenotypic characteristics near the middle, particularly for pulse rate and pulse number. This study will offer insight into the evolution of phenotypic variation and the divergence of mating behaviors during speciation.

Keywords: Speciation, Acoustic Signaling, Reinforcement, Evolutionary Biology, Reproductive Isolation

BIO

Hi, my name is Jenna Haupert. I am a second-year Behavioral Neuroscience and Business Management dual major from Parkland, Florida. I am on the premedical track with the goal of owning my medical practice one day. I am currently conducting research at FSU’s Coastal and Marine Laboratory under the mentorship of Dr. Alyssa Andres, studying the thermal tolerance of different fish species through metabolic and behavioral analysis. Additionally, I serve as a Crew Leader for FSU’s Medical Response Unit, where I volunteer as an EMT, gaining hands-on emergency medical experience. I am also a member of FSU’s Honors Program and Student Association.

Hardhead Catfish Thermal Performance

Abstract

The Hardhead Catfish (A. felis) is one of many Gulf Coast fish species that is subject to rising ocean temperatures as a result of climate change. Ariopsis felis is a bony fish species that is known to occupy habitats such as estuaries and other coastal regions. The Hardhead Catfish is known to demonstrate significant thermal tolerance in ecological surveys. One way to learn more about their thermal tolerance is to observe and quantify thermal tolerance and sensitivity. Subjects were exposed to two distinct thermal challenges; exhaustive exercise and CTmax (critical thermal maximum) trials across a range of acclimation temperatures (20, 26, 30, 34 °C). Using respirometry to determine oxygen consumption from resting to maximum energy, we were able to calculate aerobic energetic scope (AS) and how this measure of energy budget changes. Additionally, behavioral observations like disorientation and loss of equilibrium occur under increasing temperature allowing us to determine a critical limiting upper temperature where survival is compromised. All metabolic rates in A. felis increase with temperature at different rates, owing to different temperature sensitivity across activity and lead to changes in aerobic scope with increased temperature. Further, through our experimental observations we found that while the Hardhead Catfish may be tolerant of high temperatures, rising average temperatures and the increasing presence of marine heatwaves will likely alter population energy budgets, that may influence movement, viable habitat, and habitat use. This research can be used to add predictability to species and ecosystem dynamics models in an era of climate change.

Keywords: Fish, temperature, physiology,

BIO

My name is Ann George, and I am a first-year economics major from Exeter, New Hampshire. Currently, I am pursuing a pre-medicine curriculum with future aspirations to attend med school. My present interests revolve around finding cost-efficient ways to improve accessibility in healthcare. This research project has given me insight into the various aspects of how the market system can affect the accessibility of education. It has helped me build the skills to analyze and interpret pieces of literature related to economics. Outside of academics, I love to hang out with my friends and explore the Tallahassee area. In the future, I hope to do more work at the intersection of medicine and economics, helping improve the accessibility of the healthcare system for everyone.

Effect of Labor Market Conditions on Human Capital During World War 1

Abstract

This investigation explores how labor market conditions during World War 1 influenced long-term educational outcomes. The relationship between rising wages and human capital investment was examined across a variety of youth age groups. This research was conducted by transcribing data from historical publications into Microsoft Excel, either manually or with the assistance of OCR, analyzing this retrospective data, and supplementing this understanding through further review of human capital literature. Additionally, data analysis was conducted through a linear regression test to assess the relationship between wages and human capital decisions. Preliminary results indicate that World War 1’s agricultural boom led to distinct effects on various age groups of students. For older children, meaning those nearing high school completion, this boom incentivized entry into the labor force due to immediate earnings. However, for younger children just beginning school, higher wages facilitated a rise in educational investment due to increased income within parents. The preliminary results of this study suggest that older students prioritized immediate earnings over investment, whereas educational investment was more attainable with younger children due to household income increases. This research can provide insights as to how the labor market can influence educational and societal issues on a level that is relevant today. By emphasizing the role of income in education, this can influence how policy develops to encourage the rise of human capital investment.

Keywords: economics, education, human capital, wages

BIO

I am an undergraduate student with a strong interest in analytical chemistry and electrochemical research. I aim to contribute to advancements in bioanalytical chemistry and electrochemical sensing. My future goal is to pursue a career in medicine and scientific research, focusing on biotechnology and its applications in medical diagnostics and cellular studies. Participating in the undergraduate research symposium allows me to share my work and connect with the scientific community.

Electrochemical Probe Fabrication and Characterization for Single-Cell Sensing & Detection

Abstract

This study focuses on the preparation and characterization of electrochemical probes on the micro and nano size scale for intracellular analysis. At the microscale, Pt microelectrodes are being fabricated for application in electrochemical aptamer-based sensors. These microelectrodes are made using heat-sealed platinum wire inside borosilicate capillary tubes. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) is then performed in a solution containing potassium ferricyanide to characterize the electrode quality and ensure proper connection. The ratio of the insulating radius to the conductive wire radius (RG value) is found using optical microscopy, with an optimal RG value range of 5-10 that allows for probe positioning in close proximity to the membrane of single cells. At the nanoscale, carbon-deposited nanopipettes are being fabricated for intracellular sensing applications. Here, nanopipettes are made using pulled quartz glass capillaries which utilize a pyrolysis process to fill the probes with carbon to serve as an electrode material. CV is then employed to analyze the probe performance and reproducibility. These two probes are essential in advancing microscale and nanoscale electrochemical sensing, and will provide improved tools for single-cell analysis and sensor-based detection in biological systems.

Keywords: electrochemistry, electrochemical probes, single-cell sensing/detection

BIO

Hello! I'm Dhaya and some of my interests include international relations, geopolitics, and sociology. I am from Ashburn, Virginia, and I plan on pursuing immigration law, civil rights law or research.

U.S. Migrants in Contemporary Japan

Abstract

As migrants cross borders, their ideas about justice, innocence, and victimhood travel with them. Our research investigates how interpretive frameworks developed within the U.S. in response to our civil rights movements can be redeployed abroad in ways that ultimately help support the continuance of U.S. imperial influence abroad. We focus on three lenses: the “charisma man”, traveling yellow peril, and liberal anti-racism. The data was taken from a collection of Dr. Owens’ findings from over two years of immersive fieldwork and participant observation conducted in Japan, 85 interviews, and a cross-analysis of cultural texts. We have found that U.S. citizens teaching English in Japan have common experiences shaped by their identities. First, many U.S. men experience being viewed in a new way as “white/western men”, which can inspire partying in expat bars, making fun of their own racialized sexual “charisma”, and challenging racialized exclusion from public life in Japanese courtrooms. Second, in the English teaching market, they are more likely to attain jobs over more qualified Filipina women with advanced degrees because they are seen as “native English speaking,” but they can simultaneously feel threatened by Filipina labor competition and contest the terms of their employment through unions. The implications of these findings are that U.S. migrants bring along ideas concerning race, gender, and labor relations when they move abroad, affecting their actions and influencing the English teaching labor market in Japan.

Keywords: Japan, migrants, privilege, race, gender

BIO

My name is Marco Ramos and I am currently a second year Mechanical Engineering student at Florida State University. I was born and raised in Miami, Forida, where I found a passion for making things, fixing things, and working with my hands. I am now the Co-founder of the business The Campus Fix, a locally based handyman service in Tallahassee. Besides my passion for hard work, I also love spending time in nature, traveling, and trying new things.

Soft Robotics in Underwater Environments

Abstract

My project intends to determine the most efficient soft robot locomotion for uncertain underwater conditions by developing biomimetic soft fish robots that are programmed to mimic different swimming behaviors of fish species. This project tests a versatile technology that can have many important underwater applications in our future, especially considering that over 90 percent of the ocean remains uncharted.
The biomimetic robots are able to recreate the natural movements of the fish by using sinusoidal algorithms, generated by a program, that generate electronic outputs. These outputs create a fluid movement from head to tail of the robotic fish, a movement that can be recreated in virtual simulations, in order to verify the velocity and efficiency of these different swimming modes. Concurrent research suggests that tuna and salmon shaped swimmers are most efficient at high speed, while elongated fish shapes have less efficiency at high speed, but more manuverability. By incorporating reinforcement learning, these soft robots can adapt their movements based on environmental conditions, improving both speed and efficiency over time.
The findings of this study have significant implications for underwater robotics, particularly in applications such as underwater mapping, search-and-rescue missions, and even military reconnaissance. By optimizing energy-efficient locomotion strategies, this research can contribute to advancements in soft robotics and autonomous underwater vehicles, allowing for better performance in complex aquatic environments.

Keywords: Soft Robot Fish Mechanical Engineering

BIO

Armitha Gagganapally is a sophomore finance major from Orlando with a growing interest in market research and uncovering industry trends that drive business value. Her research interests stem from hands-on experience analyzing markets and understanding what makes industries tick. Outside of academics, she enjoys reading, watching films, playing tennis, and keeping up with motorsport and soccer. Armitha hopes to pursue a career in corporate finance or consulting.

Strategic Partnerships in Finance: Assessing the Customer Impact of Cross-Sector Collaborations

Abstract

Credit card partnerships are among the most common and influential cross-sector collaborations in finance. This research examines the benefits of these collaborations, focusing on whether they create unique value for consumers or primarily serve corporate profitability. Understanding how firms weigh customer benefits in their decision-making provides insight into the evolving dynamics of financial partnerships.

Our study employs literature reviews of prior analyses on cross-sector collaborations and compares credit card data, allowing us to assess the relationship between firm profitability and consumer advantages in financial partnerships. As we progress, additional data refinement, statistical analysis, and consumer surveys will provide further insights into the long-term effects of these collaborations.

Though still in early stages, this research aims to explore various dimensions of cross-sector partnerships, including their sustainability, consumer reception, and broader industry implications. Next steps involve refining our methodology, developing long-term impact metrics, and assessing global trends in financial collaborations.

This study contributes to the growing discussion on consumer awareness and financial decision-making. As customers become more conscious of their financial choices, businesses must adapt to these shifts. The findings will offer insights into how financial firms structure partnerships, balancing profitability with consumer value. This research can guide future studies on financial collaborations, helping companies and policymakers optimize strategies that benefit both firms and consumers.

Keywords: financial partnerships, consumer benefits, cross-sector collaboration

BIO

Ollie Saunders is a second-year political science major and environmental science minor from Naples, Florida. Beyond UROP, they serve as the programming coordinator for Florida State University's Pride Student Union. They have an interest in public policy analysis and are interested in pursuing a career in law as a civil rights attorney.

Investigating service needs and barriers within a collegiate recovery program

Abstract

College students experience higher rates of substance use disorders (SUDs) compared to the average population, attributable to factors such as the perception of colleges being an “abstinence-hostile” environment and low treatment rates. This population’s unique needs have contributed to increasing interest in Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs) to address the needs of college students with SUDs. Research about CRPs has historically focused on participant demographics, so research about the necessary characteristics, services, and barriers that may predict CRP effectiveness is necessary to create a more effective, standardized model of support.

This self-study investigates the service needs and barriers to access within Florida State University’s collegiate recovery program using interviews with CRP participants. Researchers conducted semi-structured interviews of students who have participated in the CRP and identify as in recovery. Researchers utilized data coding to identify common themes regarding the service needs and barriers experienced by program participants.

Thematic coding revealed the most frequently cited service needs included peer connections, sober spaces for students, and support for students with mental health issues and process addictions. Students frequently identified lack of knowledge of the program due to limited promotion as a barrier. Students also referenced limited meeting times and spaces, lack of education on substance misuse, and campus party culture as barriers to involvement. These results revealed the most prevalent service needs and barriers to access for participants. This data can be utilized to improve the CRP by mitigating barriers and informing programming with features that students cite as being pivotal to recovery.

Keywords: Recovery, collegiate recovery program, substance abuse

BIO

Hi, My name is Maya and I am a freshman psychology student here at FSU. I am looking to further my research experience and ultimately go into clinical psychology.

Examining the Effects of Children’s Word Specific Phonological Awareness on Word Reading Accuracy Within a Lexical Quality Theoretical Framework

Abstract

Purpose
Although the significant relation between phonological awareness (PA) and word reading is well
documented, questions remain about the nature of this relationship over time. This is particularly
important given that the development of lexical representations is item-based and depends on the
unique interaction between the skills a child brings task and item/word characteristics. This study
integrates a word specific measure of PA to further clarify the relationship between the quality of an
individual’s phonological representations and word reading accuracy.
Method
Second-grade (n=80) and first-grade students (data collection in progress) attending Title-I schools in the
southeast United States completed the Phonological Awareness Screening Test (PAST; Kilpatrick, 2021)
and read the same 52 words. Children also completed other child-level, word-level and child-by-word
level measures of reading and reading related skills.
Results
Preliminary results from logistic cross classified random-effects models using our sample of second-
grade students indicated significant child-level (decoding and vocabulary) and word-level (spelling-to-
pronunciation transparency rating, frequency, and phoneme length) predictors of word reading
accuracy. At the child-by-word level, a child’s word specific PA, letter-sound knowledge, and familiarity
were not significant predictors.
Conclusions
Initial results suggest these second-grade students have sufficiently redundant orthographic,
phonological, and semantic representations of the words in our study. Redundancy can facilitate word
recognition in the absence of complete and precise word knowledge (Adlof et al., 2016). The lack of
significant child-by-word effects in our models may represent the important role redundancy played in
their word reading accuracy and the potential consequences of lexical quality

Keywords: psychology, reading comprehension

BIO

As a current FSU student interested in researching autism diagnostic tools and practices in underrepresented countries in the field of psychology, I strive for my best in everything I do. My dreams involve writing; research papers, essays, stories, poetry, anything I can. I'm involved with organizations like Neurounity Alliance Society, Kindness Matters, and heavily involved with the CARE department as a Team L.E.A.D. and Take CARE ambassador. I'm proud to be a first generation neurodivergent researcher and continuing this path into my FSU career. It's my goal in the future to strive for better representation for autistic individuals through the leadership and service I do on campus.

Are We the Champions? Determining How to Measure Effectiveness in Performance Measurement

Abstract

The primary purpose of Institutional research is to analyze and collect data under certain focuses such as student admissions, and financial aid. In reviewing the data and statistics, the department is able to make executive decisions that affect the overall progression of the institution. In this study, various sources were accumulated as a way to get a better understanding of performance measurement as well as performance management. Answers were then pulled, answering the question of the most effective methods to measure performance. This was then followed by focus groups of five different units in the office. Based on their responses, recommendations were then pulled in effort to build a more efficient Institutional Research office. Measuring performance is important because it allows a department to see where it needs to improve as well as a means to measure success in an office. This project uses a literature review, as well as department feedback from conducted focus groups, to find out where our Institutional research office here at FSU needs to improve.

Keywords: Institutional Research, Performance, Measurement

BIO

I grew up in Ireland and the UK before moving to Tampa, FL for high school, where I now reside. I’m currently a sophomore pursuing a double major in Finance and Management Information Systems. My research focus is on FinTech development, and this summer, I’ll be completing a FinTech Consulting Internship in London, UK.

Microfinance and Modern Technology: AI-enabled technologies used by MFIs and their impact on product developers, lenders, and borrowers.

Abstract

The inclusive finance sector, which aims to serve disadvantaged populations through financial innovations like microfinance and mobile money, is undergoing a major transformation due to the integration of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). Traditionally focused on relationship-based lending, the sector is becoming increasingly technology-driven. This literature review explores (a) the types of AI-enabled systems being introduced in inclusive finance and (b) how they are reshaping micro-lending institutions by expanding markets, increasing borrower access, reducing default risks, and maintaining profitability. Key innovations include AI-based credit scoring models that analyze non-traditional datasets, such as social media activity and mobile usage, to assess creditworthiness for individuals lacking conventional financial histories. Cloud-based loan management platforms are streamlining operations, allowing microfinance institutions to process applications more efficiently, while mobile-first financial services are extending access to underserved populations in rural areas. Despite their promise, these technologies raise ethical concerns about fairness and bias in AI-driven lending practices. The sector faces the challenge of balancing technological progress with its core mission of financial inclusion. This review outlines the current state of these innovations, mapping where they are being adopted, regulatory developments, and the ethical issues being debated. As the use of AI in inclusive finance is an emergent trend, understanding its contours is essential to identifying areas for further investigation.

Keywords: AI, Lending, FinTech, Credit